One of the best things about Paris is going each morning to the bakery to get breakfast. Baguettes, and pain au chocolat are our favorites, though occasionally we go wild and get other types of croissants and a variety of brioches and pastries. There are LOTS of bakeries in our neighborhood– I can think of six without even trying– and now we have a wonderful new addition. Maison Ganachaud just opened up on Rue Oberkampf. The Ganachaud family has been baking bread and had bakeries in Paris, according to the sign, since 1938 but this is new location for them. I had a great discussion with the man selling me my bread the first day, and he said that Maison Ganachaud prides itself on the fact that ALL of its baguettes (those called “tradition” and those that are the “regular” baguette) are put through a double rising process, which he says is what gives the baguettes their wonderful airy quality and “holey” interiors. 

Another great thing about this bakery is that the chef making the baguettes is working in an area next to where you buy your bread, behind a glass window, so you can look in and watch the creative process! I’m looking forward to trying the wide variety of breads and pastries on display!